Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Trip Facts

Duration 16
Trip Grade Moderate
Country Nepal
Maximum Altitude (5,160m) larke pass
Group Size 2
Starts Lukla
Ends Lukla
Activities Trekking & Hiking
Best Time Apr/May /Oct/Nov

Overview

Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass & Everest Base Camp Trek – 16Days

Experience the ultimate Everest adventure combining the breathtaking turquoise Gokyo Lakes, the spectacular Gokyo Ri viewpoint, the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m), and the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m). This incredible journey takes you through traditional Sherpa villages, beautiful alpine valleys, and the magnificent Ngozumpa and Khumbu glaciers.

Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam, with an unforgettable sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m). Starting and ending in Kathmandu, this 16-day adventure includes a scenic flight to Lukla, 12 days of trekking, and a dedicated buffer day for possible flight delays.

Trek Highlights

  • 🏔️ Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the legendary starting point for Everest expeditions.
  • 💎 Explore the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes.
  • ⛰️ Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for spectacular Himalayan panoramas.
  • ❄️ Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m).
  • 🌅 Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from Kala Patthar (5,545m).
  • 🧊 Walk alongside the impressive Ngozumpa and Khumbu glaciers.
  • 🏡 Discover traditional Sherpa villages, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche.
  • 🏔️ Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam.
  • ✈️ Experience scenic mountain flights between Kathmandu and Lukla.
  • 🛡️ Enjoy an additional buffer day for possible Lukla flight delays.

A perfect adventure combining Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass, and Everest Base Camp in one unforgettable Himalayan journey.

Why Choose Us

🏔️ Local Sherpa Expertise: Born and raised in the Everest region, we bring authentic local knowledge and decades of Himalayan trekking experience.

⭐ 27 Years of Experience: Benefit from our extensive experience in organizing trekking, climbing, and adventure holidays across Nepal.

🛡️ Safety Comes First: Experienced guides, first-aid kits, pulse oximeters, and proper altitude-acclimatization planning.

🤝 Personalized Service: Private trips and small-group departures tailored to your interests, schedule, and budget.

🌍 Responsible Tourism: Supporting local Sherpa communities, mountain families, and sustainable tourism.

📞 24/7 Personal Support: Reliable assistance before, during, and after your adventure.

💰 Transparent Pricing: Clear package costs with no hidden charges or unexpected booking fees.

👨‍🏫 Professional Local Guides: Knowledgeable, experienced, and friendly trekking guides who understand the mountains and local culture.

🚁 Reliable Emergency Support: Assistance with emergency coordination and evacuation arrangements when necessary.

❤️ Authentic Sherpa Hospitality: Experience Nepal beyond the trails through local culture, traditions, food, and genuine hospitality.

We believe trekking is more than reaching a destination. It is about experiencing the mountains, connecting with local communities, and creating lifelong memories. From your arrival in Nepal until your final departure, our team is committed to making your journey safe, comfortable, and memorable.

Mountain Hiking & Trekking  Your Local Sherpa Partner for Authentic Himalayan Adventures.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, meet our trekking team for a trip briefing, where we will check your trekking equipment and explain the itinerary, safety measures, and altitude precautions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu Walking: No walking required (airport transfer only).

Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383ft) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m / 8,563ft)

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for a scenic flight to Lukla. The approximately 30–35-minute flight offers spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains. Upon arrival, meet your trekking crew and begin your trek towards Phakding. The trail descends gradually through beautiful Sherpa villages, pine forests, and traditional settlements. You will cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Phakding Walking: 3–4 hours Flight: Approximately 30–35 minutes.

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft)

After breakfast, continue trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. You will pass through Monjo village and enter Sagarmatha National Park, where your trekking permits will be checked. The trail gradually climbs through beautiful forests and traditional Sherpa villages. The final section is a challenging uphill climb to Namche Bazaar, the main trading and cultural centre of the Everest region. On a clear day, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar Walking: 6–7 hours.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft)

Today is an important acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude. After breakfast, take a short acclimatization hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), where you can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks. You can also explore the Sherpa Museum, local markets, and traditional villages around Namche Bazaar. Return to your teahouse and spend the afternoon relaxing.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar Walking: 3–4 hours (acclimatization hike).

Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,110m / 13,484ft)

After breakfast, leave Namche Bazaar and follow the trail towards the Gokyo Valley. The route initially climbs towards Kyangjuma before separating from the main Everest Base Camp trail. Enjoy magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other surrounding mountains. The trail passes through Mong La, a beautiful viewpoint, before descending to Phortse Tenga. From here, the route climbs steadily through rhododendron and pine forests alongside the Dudh Koshi River until you reach Dole.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Dole Walking: 6–7 hours.

Day 6: Trek from Dole to Gokyo (4,790m / 15,715ft)

Today, continue your journey towards the beautiful Gokyo Valley. The trail gradually climbs through alpine landscapes, passing small settlements such as Lhabarma and Luza. Along the way, enjoy impressive views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. You will follow the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, before reaching Gokyo village beside the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Gokyo Walking: 5–6 hours.

Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft) and Trek to Thagnak (4,700m / 15,420ft)

Start early in the morning for the challenging hike to Gokyo Ri. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes below. After enjoying the mountain scenery, descend to Gokyo for breakfast. Continue your journey towards Thagnak, crossing the impressive Ngozumpa Glacier. The route involves walking over rocky and uneven glacial terrain before reaching Thagnak.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Thagnak Walking: 7–8 hours (including Gokyo Ri hike).

Day 8: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830m / 15,846ft)

Today is one of the most challenging and exciting days of the trek. Start early in the morning and climb towards Cho La Pass, one of the famous high mountain passes in the Everest region. The trail involves steep ascents, rocky sections, and potentially icy or snowy terrain, depending on the season. From the top of Cho La Pass, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and glaciers. After crossing the pass, carefully descend along the rocky trail towards Dzongla, a small settlement surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Dzongla Walking: 7–8 hours.

Day 9: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m / 16,207ft)

After breakfast, begin your trek towards Lobuche. Today's route is relatively short and follows a scenic trail along the mountainside, with beautiful views of Cholatse and surrounding Himalayan peaks. You will gradually descend and then continue along the trail towards Lobuche, joining the main Everest Base Camp trekking route. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for your journey to Everest Base Camp.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Lobuche Walking: 4–5 hours.

Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) and Return to Gorak Shep (5,164m / 16,942ft)

Today is one of the highlights of your Himalayan adventure. After an early breakfast, trek from Lobuche towards Gorak Shep, following the rugged trail alongside the Khumbu Glacier. After leaving your belongings at the teahouse in Gorak Shep, continue towards Everest Base Camp. Walk across rocky glacial terrain and enjoy spectacular views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding mountains. At Everest Base Camp, celebrate reaching one of the world's most iconic trekking destinations and take photographs before returning to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Gorak Shep Walking: 7–8 hours (including the return trek to Gorak Shep).

Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m / 18,192ft) and shuttel Helicopter Flight to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383ft)

Wake up early for an unforgettable sunrise hike to Kala Patthar, one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After enjoying the views, descend to Gorak Shep. From there, take a shared  helicopter flight to Lukla, depending on availability and weather conditions. Enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Khumbu Himalayas during your flight.

Accommodation: Teahouse in Lukla Walking: Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) for Kala Patthar and descent, plus the trek to Gorak Shep. Helicopter: Gorak Shep to Lukla (subject to weather and availability).

Day 12: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

After breakfast, transfer to Lukla Airport for your scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy your final aerial views of the Himalayan mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, shopping, or exploring the city.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu Flight: Approximately 30–35 minutes (subject to weather and flight operations). Walking: No trekking.

Day 13: Buffer Day in Kathmandu

This additional day is reserved as a contingency in case of flight delays or cancellations caused by unpredictable weather conditions in the Lukla region. If your flight operates as scheduled on Day 14, enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. You can explore the local markets, visit cultural attractions, or simply relax at your hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu Walking: Optional sightseeing.

Day 14: Final Departure

Today marks the end of your wonderful Himalayan adventure. Depending on your international flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. We hope you take home unforgettable memories of the Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp, and the magnificent Himalayan mountains.

Accommodation: Not included Walking: No trekking (airport transfer only).

Fixed Departures

Choose a scheduled departure date with live availability and direct booking access.

48 departures Next: April 5, 2026 - April 20, 2026
Guaranteed Departure

Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Departure November 5, 2026
Return November 20, 2026
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Open Guaranteed
Unavailable
Guaranteed Departure

Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Departure November 10, 2026
Return November 25, 2026
$0.00
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Unavailable
Guaranteed Departure

Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Departure November 15, 2026
Return November 30, 2026
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Guaranteed Departure

Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Departure November 20, 2026
Return December 5, 2026
$0.00
Open Guaranteed
Guaranteed Departure

Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Departure November 25, 2026
Return December 10, 2026
$0.00
Open Guaranteed
Guaranteed Departure

Gokyo Cho La Pass & EBC Trek with Heli Return 16 days

Departure November 30, 2026
Return December 15, 2026
$0.00
Open Guaranteed

Private Trip

Looking for a personalized experience? We organize privately guided journeys tailored to your travel dates, group size, and pace. Please fill out the form below to get started.

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?

  • Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla (round trip).
  • Helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla, if included in your selected package.
  • Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide.
  • Porter service (one porter for every two trekkers, if included in your package).
  • Three meals daily (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Comfortable teahouse accommodation during the trek.
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit.
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.
  • Guide and porter insurance, salary, meals, and accommodation.
  • Basic first-aid kit and pulse oximeter.
  • Company duffel bag for trekking use.
  • Government taxes and applicable service charges.
  • Trekking completion certificate.

What's Excluded?

  • International airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Nepal visa fees.
  • Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.
  • Personal expenses, including alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water, and extra snacks.
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging fees at teahouses.
  • Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
  • Excess baggage charges on domestic flights.
  • Tips for trekking guides and porters.
  • Extra hotel accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or unforeseen circumstances.
  • Helicopter evacuation or additional helicopter services not specified in the package.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Additional expenses caused by flight delays, bad weather, natural disasters, or itinerary changes beyond our control.
  • Any services not specifically mentioned under the Cost Includes section.

Packing List

Daily Wear

🧥 1. Clothing & Layers

🧥 Waterproof and windproof jacket

 🏔️ Warm down jacket

🧶 Fleece jacket or mid-layer

👕 Thermal base layers (2 sets)

 👕 Trekking T-shirts (3–4)

👖 Trekking trousers (2–3 pairs)

 🌧️ Waterproof trekking trousers

 🧦 Warm trekking socks (4–5 pairs)

 🩲 Underwear

🧢 Warm hat or beanie

👒 Sun hat or cap

🧣 Neck warmer or buff

🧤 Warm and waterproof gloves

🥾 2. Footwear

 🥾 Comfortable, waterproof trekking boots

🩴 Lightweight camp shoes or sandals

🧦 Extra warm trekking socks

🥾 Gaiters for snowy conditions

 🪢 Spare shoelaces

🎒 3. Backpack & Sleeping Equipment

🎒 Main duffel bag (70–80 litres)

🎒 Daypack (25–35 litres)

 🛏️ Four-season sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C)

 🌧️ Backpack rain cover

 💧 Waterproof packing bags

 🧻 Lightweight travel towel

 🛌 Sleeping bag liner (optional)

🩺 4. Personal & Medical Supplies

 🪥 Toothbrush and personal toiletries

☀️ Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

💋 SPF lip balm

 💊 Personal prescription medication

 🩹 Basic first-aid kit

🩹 Blister plasters

🧴 Hand sanitiser

 🧻 Wet wipes and tissues

💧 Water purification tablets or filter

 💊 Altitude medication (if prescribed by your doctor)

🔦 5. Trekking Equipment & Accessories

🦯 Adjustable trekking poles

 🕶️ UV-protection sunglasses (Category 3 or 4)

🔦 Headlamp with spare batteries

🚰 Reusable water bottles (2 litres total capacity)

☕ Thermos flask

🔋 Power bank

📷 Camera and spare batteries

🔌 Charging cables and travel adapter

📱 Mobile phone

 🍫 Energy bars, chocolates, and snacks

👜 Small dry bag for valuables

🛂 6. Important Travel Documents

🛂 Valid passport

 🛃 Nepal visa

🛡️ Travel insurance (including high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation)

 Trekking permits (if not arranged by the company)

✈️ Flight tickets

📞 Emergency contact information

 💵 Nepalese cash for personal expenses

❄️ 7. Special Equipment for Cho La Pass (5,420m)

Depending on snow and ice conditions, you may need:

❄️ Microspikes or lightweight crampons

🥾 Waterproof gaiters

🧤 Extra-warm insulated gloves

🧥 Additional thermal layers

 🦯 Trekking poles

 🕶️ Glacier sunglasses

 
Mountain Hiking & Trekking Tips

🎒 Keep your daypack light and carry daily essentials.

🌧️ Protect your belongings using waterproof bags.

🥾 Break in your trekking boots before arriving in Nepal.

🥶 Prepare for freezing temperatures at Gokyo, Thagnak, Gorak Shep, and Kala Patthar.

🛍️ You can rent or purchase some trekking equipment in Kathmandu.

Our Commitment: Before your trek begins, our team will provide a detailed pre-departure briefing and help you check your equipment in Kathmandu, ensuring you are well prepared for your Himalayan adventure.

 
 

FAQs

How difficult is the Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass & Everest Base Camp Trek?

This is a challenging trek requiring good physical fitness, stamina, and preparation. You will walk for approximately 5u20138 hours on most trekking days and cross the high-altitude Cho La Pass at 5,420m.

What is the highest altitude of this trek?

The highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545m (18,192ft), offering spectacular views of Mount Everest and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Do I need previous trekking experience?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended but not compulsory. Good physical fitness and proper preparation are essential.

What is the best season for this trek?

The best seasons are spring (Marchu2013May) and autumn (Septemberu2013November), when weather conditions and mountain visibility are generally favourable.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes. The trek reaches above 5,000m, so altitude sickness is a potential risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, and our guides monitor your health throughout the journey.

What type of accommodation is available?

Accommodation is mainly in local mountain teahouses and lodges, with hotel accommodation in Kathmandu. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations

Are meals included during the trek?

Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the trekking portion, according to your selected package.

Can I hire a porter?

Yes. You can arrange a porter to carry your main luggage. We generally recommend one porter for every two trekkers.

Is the helicopter return from Gorak Shep to Lukla included?

Helicopter return arrangements can be included depending on your selected package. Flights are subject to weather conditions, operational availability, and landing restrictions.

What happens if the Lukla flight is cancelled due to bad weather?

An additional buffer day is included in the itinerary. If flights are delayed or cancelled, we will assist with alternative arrangements, subject to availability and additional costs where applicable.

Can I book this trek as a private trip?

Yes. We offer both private departures and scheduled group departures, depending on your preferred travel dates.

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